Forkful Finds

Name: One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta (Ready in 20 Minutes!)
Prep time: 20 min
Ingredients: Ingredients (serves 2); 200 g spaghetti (or any long pasta); 4 cloves of garlic (thinly sliced); 1 lemon (zest + juice); 3 tbsp olive oil; Salt & black pepper to taste; Optional: a handful of fresh parsley and parmesan for serving

Quick 5-ingredient One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta

This lemon garlic pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Made in just one pan with 5 simple ingredients, it’s packed with fresh flavor and comes together in under 20 minutes.

One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta (Ready in 20 Minutes!)

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✅ Ready in 20 minutes

✅ Only 5 ingredients

✅ One pan = easy cleanup

✅ Budget-friendly

✅ Vegetarian

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Prep Time 20

Servings: 2

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Ingredients serves 2
200 g spaghetti or any long pasta
4 cloves of garlic thinly sliced
1 lemon zest + juice
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional: a handful of fresh parsley and parmesan for serving

Equipment

Equipment You’ll Need
For this recipe, a good non-stick pan makes all the difference. I used this non-stick pan – makes cleanup so much easier!
A reliable box grater is also handy for the lemon zest and parmesan. I recommand this box grater!

Method

Step 1 – Cook the pasta
Add your spaghetti to a large pan. Pour in enough water to just cover the pasta (about 500ml). Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 2 – Add garlic & lemon
When the pasta is about halfway cooked (around 5 minutes), add the sliced garlic and lemon zest directly into the pan. Stir well and let everything cook together.
Step 3 – Finish with olive oil
Once almost all the water has been absorbed and the pasta is al dente, remove from heat. Drizzle in the olive oil and squeeze in the lemon juice. Toss everything together until silky and well coated.
Step 4 – Season & serve
Season generously with salt and black pepper. Top with fresh parsley and parmesan if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

Tips & Variations

Add protein: Toss in some pan-fried shrimp or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes with the garlic.
Go creamy: Stir in 2 tbsp of cream cheese at the end for a richer sauce.
No lemon? A splash of white wine works beautifully too.

Storage

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of water in a pan over low heat.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Lemon Garlic Pasta is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s light, bright, and bursting with flavor — perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without the hassle.

Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it turned out! 🍋🍝